Intense winds reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties without power and forced agencies to call off over 100 aircraft departures, according to regional news sources.
These gusts are impacting the entire southern region and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the weather forecasting body.
Officials in New Zealand have announced infrequent high-level wind alerts - the most severe warning - in central regions such as Canterbury and Wellington.
Locals have been encouraged to stay indoors, stay off roads, and get ready for more utility disruptions.
Broad Damage and Crisis Response
This outage seems to be impacting households mainly in the South Island, although agencies state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Local media have stated that in some places roofs have been ripped off houses, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been brought down by the gusts.
Across Wellington, a man was lost his life after being struck by a tree branch at a frequent walking route on Tuesday.
Additionally in the city, a woman was blown onto approaching vehicles on a thoroughfare by a intensive burst, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Aircraft services entering and leaving the urban area have been suspended as a result of the gusts, whereas some roads and libraries are shut down.
Meanwhile local leaders have issued a crisis declaration, to assist recovery activities.
Work Stoppages Amid Harsh Weather
The wild winds on Thursday come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers take part in what has been called a "mega strike", calling for improved salaries and workplace environments.
But the severe conditions has pressured them to alter various scheduled activities, with various open-air gatherings relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a high-temperature event to the remote areas.
Agencies have announced burning restrictions for fear of forest fires.
